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/R E P E A T -- Notice of Work Disruption at the Blue Water Bridge/

OTTAWA, Nov. 20, 2016 /CNW/ - The Federal Bridge Corporation is deeply disappointed to inform the public that it has not been able to reach an agreement with its unionized employees at the Blue Water Bridge (Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) Union Local 501). Notwithstanding negotiations which started in March of this year and continued throughout the summer and fall and with the assistance of both a conciliator and a mediator at the request of management we did not achieve the desired results..

Despite an agreement by both sides, brokered through a federally appointed mediator, not to invoke the 72-hour notice provision until after mediation, the Union has broken ranks and has provided a 72-hour strike notice. Effective, November 21, 2016, at 06:00 a.m. the Union is in a position to withdraw its services.

The Union has refused to negotiate in good faith throughout the bargaining process as evidenced by the hijacking of their own request to delay the 72-hour notice and its engagement in a relentless campaign of misinformation to garner support.

As difficult as this situation may be on everyone, FBCL assures the public that the Blue Water Bridge will remain open and the traffic flow will be maintained throughout the labour disruption. Contingency plans are in place to deal with any eventuality to maintain traffic flow as long as the situation remains unresolved.

Management and non-unionized staff have obtained certification in the Transportation of Dangerous Goods and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System as well as training for toll operation and other related bridge operation duties such as building maintenance and services to tenants of the Blue Water Bridge Corporate Center located on Venetian Blvd in Point Edward. Throughout the labour disruption, no teller service will be available at the bridge's Currency Exchange Office, but ATMs will be available 24/7.

FBCL will be posting all information related on the progress of the situation on its website at www.federalbridge.ca and through local media.